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NTSB Report
February 15, 2015 · Robinson Helicopter R22 BETA BETA · N7181S
Asherton, TX
Overview
Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
February 15, 2015
Injury Outcomes
1 injury (1 minor injury)
Location
Asherton, TX
Aircraft
Robinson Helicopter R22 BETA BETA (1999)
Tail Number
N7181S
Operator
Southwest Texas Helicopters
Injuries
Minor
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
CEN15CA153
According to the pilot, he was herding cattle with the helicopter. He descended to an altitude of about 10 feet to get the cattle to turn and enter a pen. After the cattle entered the pen, he maneuvered away and gained altitude to clear some nearby trees. The pilot thought the helicopter was clear of the trees; however, the tailrotor impacted a tree. The helicopter started to spin, so he reduced the throttle to stop the spin. The helicopter impacted terrain, resulting in substantial damage the main rotor blades, fuselage, and tailboom.
NTSB Probable Cause
Environmental issues-Physical environment-Object/animal/substance-Tree(s)-Not specified
Full Narrative
According to the pilot, he was herding cattle with the helicopter. He descended to an altitude of about 10 feet to get the cattle to turn and enter a pen. After the cattle entered the pen, he maneuvered away and gained altitude to clear some nearby trees. The pilot thought the helicopter was clear of the trees; however, the tailrotor impacted a tree. The helicopter started to spin, so he reduced the throttle to stop the spin. The helicopter impacted terrain, resulting in substantial damage the main rotor blades , fuselage, and tailboom.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time10:30 CST
Nearest Airport0nm
Flight Plan FiledNone
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftRobinson Helicopter R22 BETA BETA
Tail NumberN7181S
Aircraft CategoryHeli
DamageSubstantial
OperatorSouthwest Texas Helicopters
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsLycoming · O&VO-360 SER · Reciprocating · 0
Seats2
People & Injuries
Injury Summary1 injury (1 minor injury)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor1
Uninjured0
Total1
Crew 1Age 30 · Second Class · Minor
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
WindCalm
Visibility10 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point61 F / 0 C
Altimeter0
Weather SourcePILO